An Analysis of Procrastination

Procrastination is the thief of time, as they always say. At first, it seems like one has a lot of time… that paper’s due in several weeks, here’s no need to get started on it. Then as it slowly approaches, you make excuses and don’t get started on it. Then you realize it’s due tomorrow and you begin panicking. This happens to a LOT of people. There are several reasons that people procrastinate.

One issue is a lack of motivation. If you don’t want to do something, then it’s often very difficult to start on. If you feel generally unmotivated and you don’t want to do a task, the best way to handle that is probably to do the first step. The tiniest first step, no matter how small, will begin the task and probably spark at least some motivation.

Difficulty in decision-making/not having the skills to complete the assigned task is another cause of procrastination. These things are difficult to fix, but just keep in mind that the longer you wait the harder it will be. When it comes to decision making, I suggest you think the choice over, and just make a choice. (If you want to, you could create a list of the pros and cons.) If you don’t have the skills to complete something, just try your hardest and do whatever you can. Waiting will not improve your situation. There are also a lot of online tutorials online if can try and learn a skill before completing the task.

Another cause of procrastination is fear of failure or success. You may not want to start something because you are afraid of the outcome. Again, starting the task by just doing the first step often helps. Creating a cohesive plan before beginning your task may also be beneficial, and just remember that it’s probably better to start it now, and the longer you wait the worse things will be.

Interest plays a major role in procrastination. If you find something very boring, you are much more likely to procrastinate. The best solution to this problem is to just do the work. Although it may be difficult, doing the job mindlessly without thinking about what else you could be doing is probably the most effective solution.

I hope that helps you get past any procrastination you may have!

Now, you may be wondering… Ella, why did you decide to write about procrastination? It’s because I have Geometry and homework to do… and I don’t want to do it right now.

Wait a minute… you’re procrastinating too, aren’t you? Why are you still reading this? You probably have tons of things to do! You should do your work.